Quarantine detector dogs sniffed out by x-rays at Adelaide Airport

Adelaide's pack of bio-security detector dogs, used to detect contraband, will be withdrawn from service at the airport by mid-April as the Department of Agriculture moves towards a fully computerised system.

In a statement released by the Department states the three dogs and their handlers would be removed from service as part of adapting to the 'current fiscal environment and the need to direct resources where they are needed most'.

The statement goes on to read "Data shows that for Adelaide airport screening passengers via dogs is less efficient than other methods" with common materials detected by the dogs, which include fresh fruit, hams, salami, eggs and meat products all readily detectible by x-ray.

"Our members are very sad to see them go from Adelaide," deputy secretary of the CPSU, Rupert Evans, told 891 Breakfast.

"There are mixed feelings about why this is being done and what the possible outcomes must be."

Mr Evans said there was a view amongst members that a combination of the dog patrols and x-rays provided the best result.

"The dogs are a very visible deterrent and symbol of an acting deterrent of these materials."

The three dogs and handlers are expected to be either relocated or retired.

Although unavailable for interview, an email was forwarded by a department spokesperson stating they were examining ways to 'continue to deploy detector dogs in Adelaide, but under a new operational model, in a more targeted way'.